[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 152 (Tuesday, October 9, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2086]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN HONOR OF SAN BENITO COUNTY COUNCIL #2890

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 9, 2007

  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate San Benito 
County Council #2890 of the League of United Latin American Citizens, 
or LULAC, on its 20th anniversary. LULAC is the largest and oldest 
Latino national membership organization in the United States. This 
chapter was formed on October 17, 1987, and was the first Latino civil 
rights organization in San Benito County.
  Since its formation, San Benito County LULAC has encouraged its 
membership to uphold and defend the rights of the Latino community, and 
serves as a circle of community influence and support. It promotes 
voter participation by encouraging the Latino community to register to 
vote, to participate in the electoral process, and to defend their 
voting rights against violations. The chapter encourages and supports 
San Benito County agencies and government bodies, ensuring that the 
Latino population has a voice that represents their needs and concerns.
  San Benito County LULAC formed a Youth Council on October 5, 1989. It 
encourages youth participation in community and educational 
opportunities and has provided scholarship grants to over 140 students 
totaling $136,000. They also formed a young adult council on February 
10, 2000, whose local members attend colleges and universities 
throughout California. The chapter also served as the home State 
council for the local State director and State youth president.
  LULAC believes that education is the foundation for the cultural 
growth and development of every community member. It organizes student 
conferences and retreats for youth development and leadership training. 
For the past eight years, this chapter has sponsored the after school 
Young Readers Program at the former Fremont School and Ladd Lane 
School, enabling over 240 first through third grade students and their 
parents to develop strong reading habits.
  Madam Speaker, I commend San Benito County LULAC on its many 
accomplishments. Its exemplary record of civic involvement and extended 
support to the residents of this community personifies the very best of 
community involvement. I congratulate them on the 20th anniversary of 
their chapter's founding and invite all citizens of the county to 
celebrate their accomplishments.

                          ____________________